Turkish Baths, known as Hamam. They have always played a quite important role in Turkish daily and historical life being a result of the emphasis placed upon cleanliness by Islam.
Another important thing in the daily life of the country are the coffee-houses known as kahve, being able to find one in almost every village of the country, no matter how small it could be. Hubble-bubble pipes were used to be smoked there by men long ago (these pipes are called nargile) while talking about the matters of the day. You can still smoke "nargile," but only in some of the coffee-houses. If you ever had a chance to see a "kahve," especially in Istanbul, do not hesitate to spend some time in that lovely, authentic place.
Another interesting thing is what Turkish people call the Evil Eye, which is a typical item, a specialty of this region you should take home as a souvenir. It's called the Boncuk, the Little Magic Stone that protects one from the *Evil Eye* (pronounced "bon-dschuk"). You will see this blue glass piece everywhere here in this area.
As a curiosity, we can finally point out that Turkey is one of the very few countries that has an article in the Constitution which is related to sports, and it is the number 59, "The State takes measures to develop the physical and mental health of Turkish citizens of all ages and encourages the spread of sports among the masses. The State protects successful athletes." In recent years, with investments made in the field of sports, scientific research and the increase in importance placed by the State on sports policy, sports in Turkey became a well-liked and interesting event both as a performance sport and for the utilization of free time.
Turkish primary education is compulsory for all citizens from 6 years old to 14 years old and its free of charge in state schools.
In 1997 the duration was extended from 5 to 8 years.
The basic education program includes Turkish language and literature, mathematics, social studies, science, civics and human rights, the history of the Turkish Republic and Atatürk's reforms, a foreign language (English, French or German), individual and group activities, religious culture and ethics, art/handicraft, music, physical education, traffic safety and first aid, career guidance, and elective courses.
Secondary education can be classified as General high schools, vocational and technical high schools.
Up until 2005-2006 secondary education was 3 years but now its 4 years.
dishes made from wild vegetation has also produced a series of health foods such as pekmez, yogurt, bulgur etc.
The eating habits which reflect the tastes changing from one location to the next, gains a new meaning and near - sacredness on special occasions, celebrations and ceremonies.
Friends and relations would greet each other with either one or two kisses on the cheek.
Elders are always respected by kissing their right hand then placing the forehead onto the hand.
When entering a room, if you are not automatically met by someone greet the most elderly or most senior first. At social occasions greet the person closest to you then work your way around the room or table anti-clockwise.
Greet people with either the Islamic greeting of 'Asalamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) or 'Nasilsiniz' (How are you? pronounced na-sul-su-nuz). Other useful phrases are 'Gunaydin' (Good Morning, pronounced goon-ay-dun), 'iyi gunler' (Good Day, pronounced ee-yee gun-ler) or 'Memnun Oldum' (pleased to meet you).
Culture of Turkey
Islam
Information taken directly from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/turkey-country-profile.html
Traditions:
- Turkish Baths, known as Hamam. They have always played a quite important role in Turkish daily and historical life being a result of the emphasis placed upon cleanliness by Islam.
- Another important thing in the daily life of the country are the coffee-houses known as kahve, being able to find one in almost every village of the country, no matter how small it could be. Hubble-bubble pipes were used to be smoked there by men long ago (these pipes are called nargile) while talking about the matters of the day. You can still smoke "nargile," but only in some of the coffee-houses. If you ever had a chance to see a "kahve," especially in Istanbul, do not hesitate to spend some time in that lovely, authentic place.
- Another interesting thing is what Turkish people call the Evil Eye, which is a typical item, a specialty of this region you should take home as a souvenir. It's called the Boncuk, the Little Magic Stone that protects one from the *Evil Eye* (pronounced "bon-dschuk"). You will see this blue glass piece everywhere here in this area.
- As a curiosity, we can finally point out that Turkey is one of the very few countries that has an article in the Constitution which is related to sports, and it is the number 59, "The State takes measures to develop the physical and mental health of Turkish citizens of all ages and encourages the spread of sports among the masses. The State protects successful athletes." In recent years, with investments made in the field of sports, scientific research and the increase in importance placed by the State on sports policy, sports in Turkey became a well-liked and interesting event both as a performance sport and for the utilization of free time.
Information taken directly from http://www.internationalpropertyworld.com/turkey-guide/turkish_traditions.htmEducation:
- Turkish primary education is compulsory for all citizens from 6 years old to 14 years old and its free of charge in state schools.
- In 1997 the duration was extended from 5 to 8 years.
- The basic education program includes Turkish language and literature, mathematics, social studies, science, civics and human rights, the history of the Turkish Republic and Atatürk's reforms, a foreign language (English, French or German), individual and group activities, religious culture and ethics, art/handicraft, music, physical education, traffic safety and first aid, career guidance, and elective courses.
- Secondary education can be classified as General high schools, vocational and technical high schools.
- Up until 2005-2006 secondary education was 3 years but now its 4 years.
Information taken directly from http://www.fulbright.org.tr/en/about-turkey/turkish-educational-systemLanguages:
Turkish
Kurdish
Information taken directly from http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage/countrys/asia/turkey/trfacts.htm
Food
Sauced dishes prepared with
The eating habits which reflect the tastes changing from one location to the next, gains a new meaning and near - sacredness on special occasions, celebrations and ceremonies.
Most famous turkish desert is baklava
Cheese, coffee and teas are also very popluar in Turkey!
Information taken directly from http://www.turkishculture.org/culinary-arts/cuisine-49.htm
Societal expectations
Meeting and Greeting Etiquette
- Friends and relations would greet each other with either one or two kisses on the cheek.
- Elders are always respected by kissing their right hand then placing the forehead onto the hand.
- When entering a room, if you are not automatically met by someone greet the most elderly or most senior first. At social occasions greet the person closest to you then work your way around the room or table anti-clockwise.
- Greet people with either the Islamic greeting of 'Asalamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) or 'Nasilsiniz' (How are you? pronounced na-sul-su-nuz). Other useful phrases are 'Gunaydin' (Good Morning, pronounced goon-ay-dun), 'iyi gunler' (Good Day, pronounced ee-yee gun-ler) or 'Memnun Oldum' (pleased to meet you).
Information taken directly from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/turkey-country-profile.html